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Occupational Qualification · B28

Discretionary Grant · Upcoming

Boilermaker

QCTO Aligned Audit-ReadyCHIETA
NQF Level
NQF Level 4
Credits
540
Duration
—
SAQA ID
123381
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Official QCTO Registry Profile

Source: SAQA / QCTO registry
SAQA ID
123381
Min Credits
540
Registered
2025-02-04
Re-registration
2030-02-04
Field
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology
Sub-field
Manufacturing and Assembly

Sample Asset Preview

Curriculum Alignment MatrixCRN ZA-SDP-2026-089
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 1
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 2
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 3
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 4
Curriculum Alignment Matrix — page 5
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Overview & Scope

Programme Profile

Target Designation
Certified Boilermaker Practitioner
Competency Focus
Master specialised practical applications, safety criteria, and regulatory mandates required of a qualified Boilermaker.
Academic Weight
Full national recognition at NQF Level 4 yielding 540 credits upon successful PoE verification.
Work Opportunities
Deployment across As a qualified boilermaker, you can find employment opportunities in Chemical, Plastics, Glass, Mining. Your skills will be in demand across both public and private sectors, and you may also choose to work as an independent contractor or start your own business in this field. operations under CHIETA scope.
Audit Objective
Bridges operational skills deficits under the governing CHIETA quality matrix.
Value Proposition
Measurable, legally compliant skills that optimise productivity, satisfy Workplace Skills Plans (WSP), and unlock B-BBEE scorecard weight.
Introduction▾

The Boilermaker (NQF Level 4, 540 credits) is a comprehensive National Occupational Certificate that blends foundational theory with intensive practical application. Throughout your learning journey, you will develop the competencies required to operate effectively, safely, and ethically within your industry. Employers value this qualification because it signals that you are job-ready from day one.

Purpose▾

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Boilermaker. Boilermakers' marks-off and fabricates structural steel and other steel profiles to make or repair metal products and structures which may include pressure vessels and pipes. (Note: Metal Products and Structures include but are not limited to: Manufacture or repair metal structures, vessels, pipe systems, pressure vessels, heavy duty equipment, sheet metals, road tankers, oilrig stations, mechanical chassis, bins, water tanks, yachts, work boats, high speed vessels, square to rounds, cones, boilers, ducting, water tubes, shell boiler, railway trucks, chutes etc.). A qualified learner will be able to: • Interpret drawings, develop patterns and templates and use tools and equipment. • Cut and weld materials and components for fabrication. • Fabricate components and/or structures. • Erect and assemble plate and pipe. A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: principles and procedurally oriented, problem solving, accuracy, analytic, professionalism.

Entry Requirements▾

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access to Training Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. RPL for Exemption of Modules For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) or Final Integrated Supervised Assessment (FISA): Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 1 qualification with mathematics.

SAQA Rationale▾

The qualification is a vital response to the increasing demand for highly skilled professionals in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. As industrial operations become more complex, Boilermakers are tasked with a range of critical responsibilities. Modern boilermakers are expected to possess an understanding of plating and structural steel workers' drawings and the ability to develop intricate patterns and templates. Additionally, they must be proficient in using a wide array of specialised tools and equipment which are essential for accurate fabrication and construction. Boilermakers play a central role in the cutting and welding of materials and components, often requiring advanced techniques to ensure structural integrity and safety. This is a core responsibility that this qualification addresses comprehensively. The fabrication of complex components and structures demands a high level of skills and precision. Boilermakers are at the forefront of this task, responsible for crafting everything from pressure vessels to structural components with the utmost attention to quality and safety. The assembly and erection of plate and pipe structures, such as those found in manufacturing and construction, require specific expertise. Boilermakers must have the proficiency to accurately erect and assemble these structures according to specifications. As the demands on Boilermakers have evolved, there is a pressing need for a qualification that equips learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to excel in these core responsibilities. This NQF Level 4 qualification is designed to prepare Boilermakers with the required skills essential for the tasks as well as equip them with a deeper understanding of engineering principles, advanced fabrication techniques, and structural design. Currently there are no similar qualifications for this occupation registered on the NQF. The manufacturing and engineering sectors will gain a highly skilled workforce capable of performing tasks with precision. This will result in improved efficiency, advanced innovation, and a raised quality of workmanship, ensuring the structural integrity of industrial components and safety in complex fabrication processes. The increased quality and safety standards in manufacturing directly benefit society by reducing workplace accidents and ensuring the integrity of industrial structures and equipment, from power generation to construction. A thriving manufacturing sector driven amongst others by skilled Boilermakers who can competently perform these four key tasks contributes to economic growth, job creation, and international competitiveness. Moreover, the qualification offers promising career prospects, invigorating economic activity. Typical learners for the NQF Level 4 Boilermaker qualification encompass individuals seeking to advance their careers within the manufacturing and engineering sectors, specifically those aspiring to excel in interpreting drawings, developing patterns, cutting and welding materials, fabricating components and structures, and erecting and assembling plate and pipe structures. This qualification is ideal for those already employed in related roles, as well as recent graduates with a strong interest in becoming highly skilled Boilermakers capable of executing these core tasks with precision.

Learning Assumed to be in Place & RPL▾

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access to Training Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. RPL for Exemption of Modules For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) or Final Integrated Supervised Assessment (FISA): Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 1 qualification with mathematics.

Exit Level Outcomes▾
  • Read and interpret plating and structural steel workers' drawings and technical documents and develop templates using appropriate tools and equipment to mark off materials.
  • Fabricate components and conduct visual and mechanical inspections, applying knowledge of legal and industry standards compliance.
  • Fabricate simple components and craft workpieces with precision when manipulating and fabricating profiles and metal sections using the understanding of both heating and cold bending processes.
  • Assemble plates and pipe components into structures, and operate, position and align equipment using various methods by applying knowledge of design specifications and industry standards.

Learning Material Included

  • Learner Guide (Theory and Knowledge Modules)
  • Facilitator Guide
  • Workplace Logbook
  • Formative and Summative Assessment
  • Assessor Guide & Marking Memorandum
  • SETA / QCTO Alignment Matrix
  • Administrative & Onboarding Pack
  • Implementation Plan

Moderator-Ready Curriculum Breakdown

28 modules · 540 credits

Theory, regulatory and safety knowledge. Each row carries the registered module code, NQF level and credit weight used for formative assessment rubric mapping.

  • 651302-000-01-KM-019 cr

    Introduction to Boilermaker Trade

    NQF Level 3

  • 651302-000-01-KM-026 cr

    Environmental Protection, Health, and Safety

    NQF Level 3

  • 651302-000-01-KM-0310 cr

    Boilermaker Tools, Equipment, Machines and Materials

    NQF Level 3

  • 651302-000-01-KM-0428 cr

    Fabrication and Pipework

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-0528 cr

    Assembling and Joining

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-0628 cr

    Cutting and Welding

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-0712 cr

    Boilermaker's Drawings

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-082 cr

    Basics Principles of Environmental Awareness and Ethic

    NQF Level 2

  • 651302-000-01-KM-093 cr

    Emotional Intelligence and Active Learning

    NQF Level 2

  • 651302-000-01-KM-103 cr

    Basics of Computers and Computing Systems

    NQF Level 2

  • 651302-000-01-KM-116 cr

    Workplace Fundamentals and Workplace Safety

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-126 cr

    Workplace Relationships and Performance

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-136 cr

    Decision Making

    NQF Level 4

  • 651302-000-01-KM-1415 cr

    Basic Slinging and Lifting, and Load Securing Operations

    NQF Level 2

Sub-total credits162
QCTO & CHIETA AlignedSAQA 123381

Qualification 123381 · Curriculum Architecture

National Occupational Certificate: Boilermaker · NQF Level 4 (540 Credits)

Filter View
§ 01

Three Curriculum Pillars

162
Credits

Knowledge Modules

Classroom & E-Learning

KM-01 to KM-14 · 14 modules
  • Facilitated lectures & self-study
  • Written question banks
  • Formative comprehension checks
183
Credits

Practical Skill Modules

Simulated Line Tasks

PM-01 to PM-09 · 9 modules
  • Simulated line tasks
  • Observation rubrics
  • Structured task sheets
195
Credits

Work Experience Modules

On-the-Job Production

WM-01 to WM-05 · 5 modules
  • On-the-job rotation
  • Mentor logbooks
  • Workplace sign-offs
§ 02

Evidence & Audit Pipeline

Learner Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)
Owner · Candidate
▾
1
Admin & Registration

ID, learner contract, induction pack, POPIA consent.

2
Knowledge Evidence

Written assessments & question banks — KM-01 to KM-07.

3
Practical Evidence

Task sheets, observation rubrics, assessor photos.

4
Workplace Evidence

Logbooks, mentor sign-offs, supervisor letters.

Assessor Master File
Owner · Registered Assessor
▾
5
Assessment Reports

Judgements, learner feedback, remediation agreements, appeals log.

Internal Moderation & Quality File
Owner · Moderator / SDP
▾
6
Moderation Evidence

10% sampling matrix, HACCP/LOTO compliance sheets, SDP sign-off.

§ 03

Final Accreditation Gateway

Step 1
Statement of Results

Issued by the accredited Skills Development Provider once internal moderation is signed off.

Step 2
EISA Readiness Declaration

Provider submits declaration + PoE to the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP).

Step 3
National Qualification Certificate

QCTO awards the SAQA-registered certificate on successful EISA outcome.

Learner Certified · Uploaded to National Learner Records Database (NLRD)

Audit & Compliance

Evidence & Audit Pipeline

From portfolio assembly to external sign-off — the exact route your evidence travels.

  1. Step 1

    PoE Assembly

    Learner evidence, formative records and logbook entries filed against the alignment matrix.

  2. Step 2

    Internal Assessment

    Registered assessor judges each KM/PM/WM outcome using the supplied instruments.

  3. Step 3

    Internal Moderation

    Sampling and verification of assessor decisions, with remediation loop before submission.

  4. Step 4

    External Moderation

    SETA/QCTO desktop audit and certification upload against registered credits.

Broken Standard vs i2Graduates Standard

The measurable delta between improvised material and an audit-ready suite.

Broken Standard

i2Graduates Standard

Curriculum Mapping

Photocopied guides with mismatched outcomes

14 KM + 9 PM + 5 WM modules mapped to NQF Level 4

Assessment Bank

Missing formative and summative assessments

Pre-validated assessment bank per module

Alignment Evidence

No alignment matrix — audit fails

CHIETA alignment matrix included

Facilitation

Facilitators improvise Boilermaker delivery

Facilitator scripts + learner activities per credit

Portfolio of Evidence

PoE gaps flagged in moderation

PoE templates that survive external moderation

View on SAQA

Pricing & Delivery Tiers

Base licence from R70 000

Digital Master Suite

Editable master files, licensed to your SDP

  • Learner Guide, Facilitator Guide & Assessment Suite
  • Workplace logbook + alignment matrix (editable)
  • Instant digital delivery under institutional licence
  • Free minor corrections for 12 months
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Most selected

Turnkey Print & Bound Package

Printed, bound and couriered per learner

  • Everything in the Digital Master Suite
  • Full-colour print, wire-bound learner packs
  • Per-learner PoE folders and dividers
  • Nationwide courier with tracked delivery
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Full Enterprise Accreditation Bundle

Assets plus accreditation support end-to-end

  • Everything in the Print & Bound Package
  • Bespoke QMS build mapped to your scope
  • Moderation dry-run + written remediation report
  • Brand & metadata integration across the suite
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Complementary Services

Optional add-ons that harden your accreditation scope before an external audit.

Bespoke QMS Build

We author your Quality Management System — policies, procedures, records, matrices — mapped to your accreditation scope. From R18,500.

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Moderation Consultation

External moderation dry-run on your PoE + delivery pack. Written report with fixes before your real audit. From R4,900.

Book Moderation Session

The i2Graduates Quality Guarantee

Every page of this bundle is checked for sequence and structural accuracy — no missing pages, no shortcuts. You get pre-validated assessment instruments ready to survive rigorous compliance moderation, wrapped in a curriculum your facilitators will enjoy teaching.